Clarence Norman Andersen

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Clarence Norman Andersen (912046), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism as a Platoon Guide, serving with Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, during action on enemy Japanese-held Okinawa, Ryukyu Group, 9 May 1945. Assuming command of his platoon when the leader and sergeant had become casualties, Corporal Andersen immediately reorganized his unit and continued the attack in the face of extremely heavy machine-gun fire. When the enemy fire made further advance impossible, he ordered his men to remain in their covered positions and rushed forward of the lines to a hostile machine-gun emplacement. Silencing the enemy weapon with hand grenades, he re-crossed the open field under intense small-arms fire and destroyed a second automatic weapon before he fell, mortally wounded. By his fearless leadership and indomitable fighting spirit, Corporal Andersen enabled his platoon to continue the advance against the Japanese and his daring initiative and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Forces: Serial 031916 (August 20, 1946)